Gateron Box CJ vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Box CJ and the HMX Cheese mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Box CJ is favored for its swift characteristics and rapid response, providing typists with higher-pitched clacks and a smooth push feel. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and light typing experience, with a satisfying clacky sound signature. While the Box CJ offers a customizable lubrication experience, the Cheese switch is known for being lighter than the majority of switches on the market. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.4mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Box CJ and HMX Cheese both feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In terms of sound, the nylon bottom housing of both switches will contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. However, the top housing material differs between the two switches. The Box CJ uses polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese utilizes nylon for the top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Cheese provide unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ creates a clear and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Cheese produces a deeper and fuller sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the Box CJ. In contrast, the softer nature of nylon in the Cheese's top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Overall, the housing materials of both switches play a significant role in the sound experience of typing on these switches.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Box CJ and HMX Cheese both feature nylon bottom housings that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, their top housing materials create distinct sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box CJ produces a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Cheese creates a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. However, both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, providing a different typing experience for users.
Weight
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the HMX Cheese linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Box CJ requires 57 grams while the Cheese only needs 46 grams, making the Cheese the lighter option overall. The Box CJ provides a more medium-light typing experience, catering to those who prefer a bit more resistance, while the Cheese offers a lighter touch for a smoother typing feel. Both switches are suitable for different preferences, with the Box CJ offering a bit more resistance and the Cheese providing a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, it is evident that the Box CJ has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cheese has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Box CJ offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Cheese switch provides a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer unique benefits, and choosing between them will depend on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Box CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box CJ for $5.35.
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The Gateron Box CJ linear switch is known for its higher-pitched clacks, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile is characterized as clacky, offering a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch is acclaimed for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, boasting a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. While the specific sound descriptors for the Cheese switch are not provided, it is clear that both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, typists can customize their sound profile to suit their preferences.
Moving onto the feel of the switches, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch is recognized for its impossibly smooth push feel that glides effortlessly. Described as mild, these switches offer a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users. Conversely, information regarding the tactile feel of the HMX Cheese linear switch is not provided. Despite this, it is evident that both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, albeit with potentially varying levels of tactility. Typists will likely appreciate the distinct feel each switch provides, offering a unique tactile sensation with every keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch offer subjective qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Box CJ excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a mild tactile typing experience, while the Cheese switch prioritizes smoothness and a satisfyingly clacky sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Typists can expect a high-quality performance from both switches, achieving similar results in terms of smoothness and responsiveness despite their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Box CJ linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize speed, a swift response, and a higher-pitched clack sound, then the Box CJ with its medium-light bottom out force may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you value an ultra-light typing experience with a satisfyingly clacky sound signature, then the Cheese with its lighter bottom out force could be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Happy typing!
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